Centennial enters the 2026 season as the defending 3A boys state champion, but for head coach Kevin McCoy and the Eagles, there was no magic workout or defining moment, just the daily commitment to showing up, running hard, and doing the work.
With returning senior Mehdi Ibrahim and sophomore Derek Locktish among those stepping into larger roles, Centennial is focused on continuing the culture and legacy built by the runners who came before them. This year's team is committed not just to individual success, but to fighting for one another and teaching the next generation to do the same.
Coach Questions - Answered by Head Coach Kevin McCoy
1. Looking back now, what does that championship mean to you and your program?
Coach McCoy: We see that championship as a culmination of the hard work that we have been putting in every season. We do not treat the championship race any differently than other races. Although we appreciate the big moments and winning "important meets," we keep our heads up and look towards the work we can put in next year.
2. Was there a race, workout, or turning point when you realized your team had the potential to accomplish something special?
Coach McCoy: Once again, we see every success as a deliberate result of the work we put in every day. There is no special or particular workout where we knew that we were special. It is the routine, predictable work that we do every day that makes us special.
3. As you turn the page to 2026, what excites you most about this year's team?
Coach McCoy: We are looking forward to coming back for another year of dedicated practice.
4. Who are some athletes that you expect to take on bigger roles this fall?
Coach McCoy: Our returning senior Mehdi Ibrahim and sophomore Derek Locktish are looking to come back for another year of practice and improvement.
6. What do you hope this year's team is remembered for when the season is over?
Coach McCoy: Perpetuating the Centennial culture and legacy, like runners from years prior.
7. How long have you been coaching? How did you get your start?
Coach McCoy: 16 years, go my start here and CHS from the legendary Coach Dodds.
8. If someone spent one practice with your team, what's something they'd quickly learn about your program's culture?
Coach McCoy: Routine is the key to everything we do. Every day, it's about putting in consistent and quality work.
Captain Questions
1. What's one word that best describes this year's team, and why?
Committed. Every runner is here to put their heads down and work. Every individual's success is seen as a success for the team. Every one of our guys is ready to go out there and fight for each other, I doubt you could find commitment like that anywhere else.
2. What's one goal this team has that goes beyond winning races?
Teaching the next generation of Centennial runners to do the exact same thing: show up, run hard, and do it for the team.
3. What message would you like to send to your teammates and fans as the 2026 season begins?
We are excited for another season of hard work.